Sandu lays down the law

Romanian Football Federation (FRF) president Mircea Sandu has confirmed that from the 2004/05 season only clubs meeting the criteria set down under UEFA's club licensing system will be eligible for professional status.

Five-year period
Sandu, speaking at a seminar to discuss UEFA's offer of assistance to Europe's national football associations, did however state that the new system would he implemented over a five-year period, with all clubs having to meet the criteria by 2010.

More financially viable
It is hoped that the new measures under the auspices of UEFA will mean that Romanian clubs will become more financially viable and thus able to compete in Europe. But Sandu warned: "There exists the real danger that our sides may be expelled from European competitions."

Government role
However, Sandu also envisaged the new system in the wider context of an expanded European Union and the government’s role in promoting football in Romania. He said: "The licensing system is part of the idea of a united Europe. We have serious financial and economic problems and it is hoped government and parliament will put in place legislation to support the development of football."

No future
Sandu went on to suggest that if governmental support was not forthcoming then the game in Romania had no future. He stated: "It will die and it is obvious to everyone that our game is on the brink of collapse - economically and in terms of corruption and the standard of refereeing."

Accept responsibilty
Sandu admitted that everyone involved in Romanian football had to accept responsibility for the current plight, but they also had the power to rectify the situation. He said: "Only we can improve the situation. In fact, it is our fault because we accepted this system and if things continue like this then there is a real danger that our championship will not continue."

Stark reality
The FRF's deputy general secretary, Cristian Bivolaru, who will oversee the implementation of the new system, highlighted the stark reality facing Romanian football. He warned: "The big and rich clubs do not want us at their table any more. They do not want to play against clubs and international sides that do not meet their own sporting and financial standards."

Uneven disribution of wealth
Bivolaru suggested that it was a case of the leading nations' unwillingness to spread around their wealth. He said: "They make money and they don't want to share it with the poor. That's why UEFA is attempting to save us by giving us the opportunity to close the gap financially. We have to understand what this system means and respect the rules laid down. Otherwise, we will lose the right to award licences."